A ‘lairy procession’ rolled into Portsmouth as it cheered on the city’s bid to be the UK City of Culture 2029.
Cyclists from Portsmouth CTC were led by drag queen Cherry Liquor into the grounds of the Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery on Friday, July 10. The procession represented the thousands of dock workers from the past who would cycle through Victory Gates at the end of their shift every day.
The cyclists were joined by musical performers and larger than life puppets as they cheered “we are Pompey”. It was all part of Portsmouth’s City of Culture bid with the procession another demonstration of the city’s rich heritage.
Having made the long list, Portsmouth Creates who are leading the bid, are in the process of submitting the next application before the shortlist is announced.
Bernadette Topham, chair of Portsmouth Creates, said: “It is a lot of work but it is tremendous the interest and excitement that has built in the city. What is great is that so many people have got behind the bid and are involved. We are putting together an exciting programme of activities, which we can’t talk about yet.
“What we are doing is showing what we will be doing and what difference a City of Culture will make, and also that the whole city is behind it, that includes residents, health, Navy, university and businesses. We are also showing that we can deliver, so this stage of the bid is really important.
“What is also doing is, even if we don’t get the bid and we think we will, it is building legacy.”
She said: “The trail is important for the bid because it shows that Portsmouth can come together. The city’s centenary is a great thing to celebrate and it shows that we have all of that heritage and history behind us but so much more ahead as well.
“I think what is exciting is that so many people have got behind the lion trail which is all about culture and art but also about how you create a sense of place in the city so it is really exciting.”
Portsmouth City Council leader Cllr Steve Pitt has been delighted with the work on the City of Culture bid so far and how the Portsmouth100 celebration provide it with a “brilliant platform”.
He said: “It was important that we were the ally of Portsmouth Creates who are leading the bid, it shouldn't be for councils to define cultural programmes it needed to be led by the community. They have been out there and consulted with thousands of people but we are absolutely sat at their shoulder.
“I have spoken with the team almost everyday sharing ideas and getting feedback. Seeing how everybody is coming together to make this bid as strong as it can be has been absolutely amazing.”
5. UK City of Culture bid
The procession gathers to cheer on Portsmouth's UK City of Culture bid. | Chris Moorhouse
6. UK City of Culture bid
The procession arrives at Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery. | Chris Moorhouse